slightly below average

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly below average" is correct and frequently used in written English.
It can be used to describe something that falls just under the expected or typical level of performance, quality, or quantity. It can also be used to describe a person's abilities or characteristics that are slightly below what is considered to be the norm. Examples: 1. The student's test scores were slightly below average, but with some extra studying, she was able to bring her grades up. 2. This year's profits were slightly below average compared to last year's, but the company is still financially stable. 3. John's height is slightly below average for his age, but he makes up for it with his quick reflexes on the basketball court. 4. The restaurant's service was slightly below average, but the delicious food made up for it. 5. The temperature has been slightly below average this winter, causing many people to bundle up and stay indoors.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

Overall, response professionals have an above average preparedness score while laypeople exhibit slightly below average preparedness.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

"Slightly below average," he said.

The New Yorker

"I get much worse, but this is slightly below average".

The New Yorker

Northern Ireland was slightly below average at 73 hours.

The Guardian

Thurston's slightly below average club form is the only negative.

The Guardian - Sport

He appears to be slightly below average height so that seems a little harsh.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Surprisingly, 3 drops off by the end of the game, so it offers a slightly below-average chance to win the big payout that comes with picking the box with final score.

The New York Times

The North Atlantic, western North Pacific and northern Indian Ocean were among regions seeing slightly below-average cyclone activity.

BBC

My hands get mighty cold in the winter thanks to a drafty home office and my slightly below-average circulation, so I could probably use one of these.

TechCrunch

The wind diameter was average to slightly below-average, and the forward speed was normal.

Wikipedia

It gave an average score from an end-user's perspective and a slightly below-average score from an administrator's perspective.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing performance or results, use "slightly below average" to indicate a minor deficiency that doesn't significantly impact overall assessment. For example, "The team's batting average was slightly below average, but their pitching was excellent."

Common error

Avoid using "slightly below average" when the deficiency is more significant. Using stronger terms like "significantly below average" or "well below par" will provide a more accurate representation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly below average" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It qualifies the degree to which something falls short of the average. Ludwig examples confirm its use in describing quantifiable data and subjective assessments. The AI analysis confirms its appropriate use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slightly below average" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something that is just a little less than the norm. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts to offer a nuanced evaluation without being overly critical. The analysis reveals its prevalence in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, indicating a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. When using this phrase, ensure the deficiency is indeed minor to avoid misrepresentation. For alternative expressions, consider options like "marginally under par" or "a bit deficient" to fine-tune your meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly less than typical

Directly compares to what is normally expected.

just under the norm

Indicates a position close to, but not quite at, the average.

marginally under par

Emphasizes being just under a defined standard or expectation.

a shade under average

Uses 'shade' to emphasize a very slight difference.

a bit deficient

Focuses on the aspect of lacking something to a small degree.

somewhat substandard

Highlights the quality not quite meeting the required level.

modestly deficient

Highlights a moderate lack in some quality or aspect.

a touch below expectations

Implies falling short of what was hoped for by a small amount.

fractionally inferior

Implies a very small difference in quality.

hardly up to average

Suggests barely reaching the average level.

FAQs

How can I use "slightly below average" in a sentence?

You can use "slightly below average" to describe something that is a little less than the typical or expected level. For example, "The student's test score was slightly below average, but they are improving."

What's the difference between "slightly below average" and "significantly below average"?

"Slightly below average" indicates a minor difference from the average, while "significantly below average" implies a more substantial difference.

Which is correct, "slightly below average" or "a little below average"?

Both phrases are correct and can be used interchangeably, although "slightly below average" might be perceived as more formal than "a little below average".

What can I say instead of "slightly below average"?

You can use alternatives like "marginally under par", "a bit deficient", or "somewhat substandard" depending on the specific context.